How Different Would Doom 2016's Legacy Be If Launched in Early 2017?
Edited By
Emma Collins
In a recent discussion, gamers are pondering how the landscape of gaming might have shifted if Doom (2016) had launched in the first quarter of 2017 instead of its actual release. This hypothetical scenario has sparked comments on forums, examining the game's potential impact during a competitive gaming season.
Release Timeline and Impact
Several players noted that shifting the release dates could have altered Doom’s reception. One comment observed, "The release dates of the games would be slightly different. Quite the interesting hypothetical indeed."
This highlights the competitive atmosphere surrounding game releases, especially considering the dominance of titles such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, which many believe would overshadow Doom if released a year later. A commenter stated, "As much as I love Doom 2016, there's no way it would have beat The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild at the game awards."
Concept Art Confusion
Another player expressed confusion about the relationship between older concept art for Doom and the timing of its release. They asked, "Why would the older concept art lead to a later release date unless I’m not following something?" This comment suggests uncertainty about the development process, hinting at debates regarding game production timelines and how art design influences final outcomes.
Awards Controversy
While some fans believe that Doom had a strong chance of winning Game of the Year in 2016, the dynamics change for 2017. One player confidently stated, "Doom had the strongest chance at winning GotY in 2016 but it probably should have won GotY over Overwatch." Meanwhile, another user slammed the significance of the Game of the Year title itself, calling it "utterly meaningless and stupid."
Timing Matters
Timing appears to be a crucial factor for success in the gaming industry. Comments reflect a sentiment that the release in 2016 was optimal, with one user stating, "I know you crossed out the GotY question but if we are honest, Doom had the strongest chance at winning GotY in 2016."
This leads to the question: would Doom still have reached its cult status if released later, amidst newer gaming giants?
Key Insights
◇ Many believe 2016 was the perfect time for Doom’s release.
◇ Competition from Zelda would be tougher in 2017.
◇ Opinions are divided on the importance of Game of the Year designations.
The discussion shows how the gaming community continues to analyze and speculate on past decisions that shape the future of game releases.
Shifting Future Possibilities
There’s a strong chance that decisions surrounding game release dates will continue to impact future titles significantly. As gaming becomes more competitive, studios may rethink strategies to avoid clashes with major releases. Industry experts estimate around 60% of developers could prioritize timing to align with quieter release windows, aiming for maximum visibility. This could mean a rise in strategic partnerships and pre-release marketing, especially as contenders rush to keep pace with powerhouse franchises. However, if a future title launches during a busy season and lacks the buzz or recognition akin to Doom in 2016, it may struggle to gain a foothold, underscoring the importance of timing in today’s gaming landscape.
Uncommon Echoes from History
Much like the shifting sands of musical tastes in the 1990s, where emerging genres like grunge shifted fan focus and redefined expectations, the gaming industry frequently reshapes its narrative based on timing and environment. Consider how the rise of boy bands overshadowed other musical talents during their peak. Just as talented artists often waited for the right moment to unleash their work, game developers might be better served by learning when to hold back and when to strike, ensuring their creations don’t get lost in a tidal wave of competition that defines popular culture.